Distinctly San Francisco

What is it that makes San Francisco so unique, so special?

The first thing that you will notice as you step off the plane is the dense fog that blankets the whole Bay area. It imparts a mystery, a challenge to discover all the secrets that the city of San Francisco holds, enough to make you leave your heart in its hands.

You may have your reasons for going to San Francisco: a change of scenery, perhaps, a time to unwind, or a place to discover yourself. The sights, the sounds, the lights, and the people in San Francisco each have their own unique story to tell to those who care to listen.

San Francisco is a place where you can never feel homesick. The mixture of cultures is so rich that you are bound to find someone who will remind you of home. Plus the fact that there is just so much to do and so many places to see.

If your visit is just for a few days, then you may want to go to those places that are distinctly San Francisco. Don’t forget to put on those comfortable shoes and jacket.

First stop is at the corner of Market and Powell street where you can get a ride on the original cable cars that have serviced San Francisco since the early 19th century. Take the Powell-Hyde route which will take you to the next destination, Lombard street.

Lombard has one of the most distinct features of San Francisco - it's the world’s crookedest street. The people who constructed this street only had one thing in mind: safety. Because of the steep incline of Lombard, the only way to get down is to do it slowly and at an angle, hence the hairpin turns. Aside from its construction, the beauty of the landscape and the houses that surround it are quite a picturesque sight.

Next stop is at the colourful houses down the Alamo square and the Victorian inspired houses along the Haight Ashbury neighbourhood. This place is full of history and is what gives San Francisco its unique character in many people's eyes.

At this point, you may want to go take the Muni back to the downtown area to recharge and to savour the rich cuisine of various cultures, from Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, to Indian, Mediterranean, as well as a fusion of all these.

In the evening, you could go to visit the Golden Gate bridge. If you are able to withstand the cold winds whipping through you as you stand in awe of this majestic structure, then you can say that you have conquered San Francisco. More so if you are able to walk down the sides of the bridge (although I don’t think they allow you to do this at night so don't leave it too late).

There are many other treats that San Francisco has to suit each taste and interest. All you need to do is look and you'll find it.